Financing Graduate School

Funding postgraduate studies can seem like an insurmountable obstacle in your quest for a master’s or doctoral degree. Resources are available, however, to help you meet your financial needs. Check out the websites and suggestions below to get started funding your continuing education.

Apply for All Types of Funding

Complete the required Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A paper copy is available from the Student Financial Office or you can complete the application online.

Graduate/Teaching/Research Assistantship

By working for a professor, your academic program, or various other offices on campus, you could finance you whole tuition! Some assistantships are not listed on web sites, so it's important to contact the school/department directly to ask about these opportunities. Additionally, many assistantships may be found outside of a specific academic program.

Loans

Most loans require that a student be enrolled in a certain number of credit hours. Subsidized loans indicate that the government will cover the interest payments while you are in school. If a loan is unsubsidized, it means that the student is responsible for paying any of the interest that accrued over the course of the program. Many colleges provide listings of preferred loan vendors for private loans. Be sure to compare interest rates at multiple lending institutions.

Loan Forgiveness

There are a number of loan forgiveness programs for those who pursue work in specialized fields such as law, education, and nursing. Visit FinAid's website to learn more about these programs.

Residential Life

As a residential advisor, students may receive free housing and a stipend. Check with the residential life office at your institution to find out more.

Employer Assistance

Some employers offer tuition reimbursement as part of a total compensation benefit package for employees. Check with your human resources department to find out more if you intend to work while going to graduate school.

Check the deferment policies for your undergraduate loans to delay payments while you continue your studies.

Scholarships/Fellowships

Although there are fewer scholarships available for graduate students, there are some options. Contact the school to find opportunities available to you.

Information on Financing:

For more information on financing your graduate studies, check out these additional resources:

FinAid: The Smart Guide to Financial Aid - a collection of a wide range of information on aid, scholarships, university financial aid offices, and related documents.Graduate Guide: A detailed guide on loans, scholarships, tax credits, loan forgiveness, and more essential topics of graduate school financing.